How to Become a School Counselor in South Dakota for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Many South Dakota students face challenges finding qualified school counselors, with only 38% of schools meeting recommended counselor-to-student ratios. This shortage limits essential support for academic and emotional development. Pursuing a career as a school counselor in South Dakota offers strong job stability due to growing demand and competitive salaries above the national average.

This article provides clear, actionable steps to become a licensed school counselor, covering education requirements, certification processes, and career pathways. Prepared by career planning experts, it equips readers with practical strategies to navigate credentialing and secure rewarding roles in South Dakota’s education system.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a School Counselor in South Dakota

Earn a master’s degree in school counseling from a regionally accredited program, meeting South Dakota’s educational requirements.
Complete the South Dakota Department of Education’s certification process, including passing the Praxis School Guidance and Counseling exam.
Gain practical experience through supervised internships, as the state requires documented clinical hours for licensure.

What degree do I need to become a school counselor in South Dakota?
Are there school counseling specializations in South Dakota?
How long does it take to complete a school counseling degree in South Dakota?
What certification is required to work as a school counselor in South Dakota?
Can I transfer my South Dakota school counseling license between states?
How often do South Dakota school counselors need to renew their credentials?
What are the alternative pathways to become a school counselor in South Dakota?
What is the average salary of school counselors in South Dakota?
What is the job outlook for school counselors in South Dakota?
What are the career advancement opportunities for school counselors in South Dakota?
How can mentorship and professional support advance my career in South Dakota?
Other Things You Need to Know About How to Become a School Counselor in South Dakota

What degree do I need to become a school counselor in South Dakota?

To meet the school counseling degree requirements in South Dakota, candidates must earn graduate-level qualifications from accredited programs that align with state standards. These degrees ensure readiness for certification and effective service in K-12 educational settings.

Key degree options include:

Master’s Degree in School Counseling: This is the primary path, requiring completion of a master’s program that prepares students for K-12 endorsement and is approved by the South Dakota Department of Education, often including a supervised internship of at least 600 hours.
Master’s Degree or Higher in a School Counseling Preparation Program: Candidates may earn any master’s or higher-level degree focused on school counseling that meets state curricular standards and is from a regionally accredited institution.
Completion of a CACREP-Accredited Program: Graduating from a program accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) is highly recommended, as it may exempt candidates from additional exams like the Praxis School Counselor test.

For those exploring how to start a career as a licensed counselor, understanding these accredited school counseling programs South Dakota requirements is essential to plan the right educational path efficiently.

Are there school counseling specializations in South Dakota?

South Dakota’s CACREP-accredited school counseling specializations offer targeted training to equip professionals for effective roles in K–12 educational settings. These programs build essential skills aligned with both state certification requirements and national standards, making them a strategic choice for those exploring school counselor career paths in South Dakota.

School Counseling (K–12): Focuses on supporting students’ academic, career, and social-emotional development across elementary to high school levels through a 60-credit curriculum including supervised practica and internships.
Supporting Area Courses: Offers electives that enhance the core curriculum, allowing students to specialize in areas such as multicultural counseling, trauma-informed care, or collaboration with special education professionals.
National Certification Preparation: Prepares graduates to sit for the National Certified Counselor (NCC) exam, improving job prospects and professional mobility within and beyond South Dakota.
Comprehensive Skill Development: Emphasizes ethical practice, crisis intervention, assessment, and consultation, ensuring graduates meet entry-level competencies required by schools and districts.

For those considering advanced qualifications or seeking the best online counseling degree program, these specializations provide a clear path to becoming a certified school counselor with practical readiness for diverse K–12 environments.

The chart below shows the breakdown of institution types offering CACREP-accredited counseling programs, with public universities leading, followed by private not-for-profit schools and a small share of private for-profit institutions. This context helps South Dakota students target programs that match their career and educational preferences.

How long does it take to complete a school counseling degree in South Dakota?

Completing a school counseling degree in South Dakota typically involves earning a 60-credit hour master's degree in counseling or a related field, which usually takes two to three years for full-time students. Part-time students should expect additional semesters due to course pacing and field experience needs.

Programs often offer a specialization in school counseling, such as the Master of Science in Counseling and Human Resource Development found at some universities. Course sequencing and summer enrollment options can also influence the pace of completion.

Several state-specific requirements can extend the duration of the program:

Internship Requirement: A minimum of 600 clock hours of supervised internship in a school setting is mandatory and generally incorporated within the master's program, but part-time students might need extra time to fulfill this.
Credit Hour Expectations: The 60 graduate credit hours required are on the higher side nationally, so balancing coursework with work or family commitments can slow progress.
Certification and Examination: After coursework and internship completion, passing the Praxis II exam and applying for state certification can add weeks or months to the timeline.

Other factors affecting completion time include admission cycles, which may limit program start dates to once or twice annually, and the transferability of prior graduate credits, which can shorten or lengthen study time. South Dakota does not offer reciprocity for out-of-state credentials, so candidates with experience elsewhere must meet all state-specific degree and internship standards. Planning ahead for these variables helps manage expectations and ensures a smoother path to certification.

What certification is required to work as a school counselor in South Dakota?

To work as a school counselor in South Dakota, you must obtain the School Counselor Certificate issued by the South Dakota Department of Education. This certification verifies your specialized skills and is separate from a teaching license. After earning your school counseling degree, follow these essential steps to secure your certification:

Pass a State-Approved Exam: Successfully complete the Praxis II: Professional School Counselor exam (Test Code 5421 or updated equivalent) to demonstrate your counseling knowledge and ethical standards.
Complete a Background Check: Submit to a criminal background check with fingerprinting to comply with state and federal safety requirements.
Document Supervised Experience: Provide proof of a supervised counseling internship or practicum completed in a K-12 setting, meeting the state’s minimum hour requirements.
Submit Application: Apply to the South Dakota Department of Education with transcripts, exam scores, experience verification, and background check results.
Pay Application Fee: Include the required non-refundable fee to cover processing and administrative costs.
Maintain and Renew Certification: Renew your certificate every five years by completing professional development and continuing education as mandated by state guidelines.

Can I transfer my South Dakota school counseling license between states?

South Dakota does not participate in formal reciprocity agreements for school counselor licensure, so you cannot directly transfer your South Dakota license to another state without fulfilling that state’s specific requirements. If you plan to move and practice elsewhere, you will generally need to apply for certification or licensure by endorsement in the new state, which involves several steps that vary but often include:

Submitting official transcripts and proof of your South Dakota license.
Providing verification of supervised internship hours, typically at least 600 clock hours as required by South Dakota.
Completing any additional state-specific coursework, such as training in local laws or multicultural education.
Passing required state exams, often including the Praxis School Counselor exam or other state-mandated tests.
Undergoing a new criminal background check, regardless of previous checks.
Meeting further criteria like professional recommendations, teaching experience, or additional graduate credits.

Transferring a school counseling license can be challenging, as states often differ in coursework, exam requirements, and experience criteria—sometimes requiring accredited program completion or specific post-certification years. While provisional licenses may allow counselors to work while meeting outstanding requirements, long processing times can delay employment. Navigating this process demands both planning and patience.

A veteran South Dakota school counselor shared that moving out of state felt like starting over with paperwork and exams, even with years of experience. She found the lack of reciprocity frustrating but saw it as a chance to expand her knowledge, noting that provisional licenses in some states allowed her to keep working.

Her experience underscores that while the process is demanding, persistence and preparation can make it both manageable and rewarding. The accompanying snapshot below shows how counselor numbers vary widely across states, offering South Dakota counselors insight into job availability and competition elsewhere.

Texas has the highest number of school counselors at 14,131, while Wyoming has the fewest with just 306.

How often do South Dakota school counselors need to renew their credentials?

South Dakota school counselors are required to renew their professional credentials every five years to maintain active certification. This renewal ensures counselors stay current with educational standards and professional development within the field.

Renewal Cycle: Credentials must be renewed every five years through the South Dakota certification portal.
Continuing Education Credits: Counselors must complete six education-related transcripted credits relevant to counseling during each renewal cycle.
Suicide Awareness Training: Proof of completion of state-approved suicide awareness and prevention training is mandatory for each renewal.
Application Submission: Renewal applications are submitted online via the South Dakota Certification Portal.
Renewal Fee: A fee is required with each application; check the Department of Education website for the current amount.
National Certification Option: Holding or renewing the National Certified School Counselor (NCSC) credential meets all continuing education requirements automatically.
Application Timing: Renewal can be initiated any time after January 1 of the certificate’s expiration year to avoid lapses.
Proof of Employment: Some renewal pathways may require evidence of current or recent employment as a school counselor.
Background Check: A new background check may be required if there has been a lapse in certification or employment gaps.
Hardship or Military Considerations: Extensions or modifications may be available for active military duty or demonstrated hardship; contact the certification office for details.

What are the alternative pathways to become a school counselor in South Dakota?

South Dakota offers multiple alternative pathways for those seeking school counselor alternative certification South Dakota, especially career-changers or individuals without traditional education backgrounds. These options help candidates meet licensure requirements through flexible routes.

Reciprocity for Out-of-State Counselors: Licensed counselors from other states may apply for South Dakota certification by submitting transcripts, exam scores, and completing state-required trainings.
Post-Baccalaureate or Graduate Certificates: Non-education degree holders can enroll in specialized certificate programs that cover essential coursework and state-specific studies without immediately granting licensure.
Provisional Licensure: Allows candidates hired by schools to work while completing graduate coursework and supervised fieldwork required for full certification.
Relevant Experience and Coursework: Career-changers with related backgrounds may apply professional experience toward requirements but must complete key trainings and graduate-level preparation.

Successful pathways typically require passing the Professional School Counselor Exam and completing a ranking of the best online graduate counseling certificate programs or approved graduate coursework in school counseling.

What is the average salary of school counselors in South Dakota?

The median salary for school counselors in South Dakota is approximately $52,450, slightly below the national median for this profession. However, the state's competitive cost of living and regional salary variations create unique opportunities for career growth and financial stability.

Location: Urban areas like Rapid City and Sioux Falls offer higher salaries due to greater funding and demand, benefiting counselors seeking stronger compensation.
Experience: Salaries increase with years of service, with seasoned counselors earning up to around $61,730 annually, rewarding professional development.
Education and Certification: Advanced degrees and state certification are essential, and additional credentials can lead to salary boosts through stipends or district incentives.
Employer Type: Public schools generally provide stable pay scales, while private and higher education roles may differ, offering diverse options for job seekers.
Job Market Demand: Expected employment growth of 10% through 2032 supports job security and potential salary improvements over time.

A school counselor from South Dakota, who graduated from a local university, shared insights on the salary experience: “Starting out, the pay was modest but fair, especially considering South Dakota’s affordable living expenses. Over time, with added certifications and experience, my salary steadily increased, which made it easier to plan for my family’s future. The support from the school district in recognizing advanced qualifications really made a difference.” This counselor emphasized that while the salary might not match larger states, the balance of cost of living and steady growth opportunities creates a rewarding career path in South Dakota.

The following chart illustrates how school counselor salaries in the US increase with higher education levels, from a bachelor’s to a master’s and reaching the highest with a doctorate. This trend reinforces the financial value of pursuing advanced degrees in the profession.

What is the job outlook for school counselors in South Dakota?

The school counselor job growth in South Dakota is projected at 9% from 2019 to 2029, reflecting steady demand for these professionals in educational settings. This rate aligns closely with national trends, indicating a stable employment outlook for those entering the field. As of May 2020, South Dakota employed 570 school counselors, with an average annual wage of $54,690, highlighting competitive compensation compared to other education roles.

Student Mental Health Needs: Growing awareness of mental health issues in schools is increasing demand for counselors skilled in addressing behavioral and emotional challenges.
Rural Access to Services: Many rural communities in South Dakota rely heavily on school counselors due to limited mental health resources outside of schools.
Steady Student Enrollment: Consistent or rising student populations maintain the need for qualified counselors to support academic and personal development.
State Education Initiatives: Programs like South Dakota’s Comprehensive Counseling Model promote comprehensive support services, encouraging schools to expand counseling staff.
Competitive Salaries: School counselors typically earn $5,000 to $10,000 more annually than teachers, making the profession attractive to qualified candidates.
Employment Projections: The category “Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors” is expected to grow from 934 positions in 2023 to 959 in 2025, with approximately 25 annual job openings statewide.

For those considering advanced training, pursuing a masters in counseling can improve qualifications and readiness to meet South Dakota’s evolving school counselor employment outlook South Dakota demands.

This statistic shows that nearly every state, including South Dakota, faces a counselor shortage based on ASCA’s recommended ratio. The widespread gap underscores the strong job outlook and the ongoing need for qualified school counselors to meet student support demands.

48 states exceed the recommended 250:1 student-to-counselor ratio, highlighting a counselor shortage.

What are the career advancement opportunities for school counselors in South Dakota?

School counselors in South Dakota have diverse pathways for career advancement, allowing them to expand their roles and influence in educational settings. By building experience and pursuing further education, counselors can access leadership opportunities for South Dakota school counselors and specialized positions that enhance their professional growth.

Lead School Counselor or Department Chair: Requires several years of experience and leadership skills to coordinate programs and mentor peers.
School Counseling Director/Coordinator: An advanced degree and strong program evaluation abilities are necessary to oversee district-wide counseling services.
Mentor Counselor: Supports new counselors through formal mentoring programs, emphasizing collaboration and leadership development.
Specialist in College and Career Readiness: Focuses on student transitions to college or workforce with specialized training in career counseling.
School Administrator: Additional educational administration credentials enable counselors to pursue roles such as principal or assistant principal.
Professional Development Instructor: Experienced counselors teach graduate courses or workshops, requiring a master’s degree and field experience.
State or Regional Education Agency Roles: Positions at education agencies involve policy and program development at a systemic level.
Requirements for Advancement: Gaining experience, earning advanced degrees or certifications, participating in mentoring, and engaging in ongoing professional development are key strategies. For those seeking flexible education options, completing a shortest online MFT program or similar credentials can support career growth.

What do school counselors in South Dakota say about their career?

Completing my school counseling program at Black Hills State University truly prepared me for the unique challenges of working in South Dakota's rural schools. Starting my career in a local school gave me insight into the tight-knit communities and the importance of personalized support for each student. The stability and resources available here have allowed me to grow professionally while making a meaningful difference in young lives. I love that my work directly contributes to the well-being and future success of students in our area. Javier
Beginning my school counseling career in a local South Dakota academic institution has been both rewarding and eye-opening. The cultural diversity and strong sense of community here shaped my approach to counseling, encouraging me to embrace varied perspectives and tailor my support accordingly. The professional development opportunities have been impressive, allowing me to advance while remaining deeply connected to the students I serve. This role has fostered my personal growth beyond what I anticipated when I graduated from Augustana University. Amina
Working as a school counselor in South Dakota has offered me unique opportunities to engage with students in a rural environment that values resilience and community spirit. After finishing my program at Dakota State University, I was eager to contribute to the positive mental health and academic success of young people here. The challenges of limited resources have pushed me to be creative and resourceful, which has enhanced my skills and passion for this career. Supporting students through their obstacles and celebrating their achievements makes every day fulfilling. Tyrell

How can mentorship and professional support advance my career in South Dakota?

Structured mentorship programs and professional support networks play a crucial role in refining clinical skills and navigating the unique challenges of South Dakota’s educational landscape. Formal mentorship initiatives offered by local educational associations and counseling organizations provide opportunities for personalized guidance, case-based learning, and career strategy development. Engaging in these networks helps emerging school counselors stay informed about evolving best practices, certification updates, and innovative approaches to student support. Additionally, leveraging resources such as the fastest way to become a counselor in South Dakota can streamline professional growth by offering targeted pathways and practical insights from industry experts.

Other Things You Need to Know About How to Become a School Counselor in South Dakota

Can South Dakota school counselors work in private practice?

School counselors in South Dakota primarily work within public or private educational institutions, but they can also pursue private practice if they meet specific licensure requirements. To work in private practice, counselors must obtain a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential, which is distinct from the school counseling certification.

The LPC license requires a master’s degree in counseling or a related field, completion of supervised clinical hours, and passing a national counseling exam. Holding this license allows counselors to offer mental health services independently outside of school settings.

While the school counseling certification authorizes professionals to work within schools, it does not grant permission for private clinical practice. Therefore, school counselors interested in private practice must take additional steps to secure LPC licensure. This dual credentialing enables them to expand their career options, providing counseling services to a broader population beyond the school environment.

Which majors are best for aspiring school counselors in South Dakota?

For aspiring school counselors in South Dakota, selecting an undergraduate major closely related to counseling, psychology, or education is highly advantageous. Majors such as Psychology, Education, or Human Services provide foundational knowledge in child development, mental health, and educational systems, which are crucial for effective school counseling.

According to the South Dakota Department of Education, school counselors must hold a valid counseling certification, which typically requires a relevant bachelor's degree followed by a master’s in school counseling. Psychology majors gain a strong understanding of behavioral theories and mental health issues, equipping them to support students’ emotional and social needs. Education majors benefit from coursework on instructional strategies and school environments, directly applicable to the school setting.

Human Services programs often emphasize community resources and advocacy, preparing counselors to connect students with necessary supports. Data from the National Center for Education Statistics highlights that schools with certified counselors see improved student outcomes, reinforcing the importance of relevant academic preparation in South Dakota’s education system.

How much does a school counseling degree in South Dakota cost?

The cost of a school counseling degree in South Dakota varies depending on the institution and program format. Public universities typically offer lower tuition rates for in-state residents, averaging around $7,000 to $10,000 per year for graduate programs. Out-of-state students may pay nearly double that amount. Private institutions often charge higher tuition, ranging from $15,000 to $25,000 annually.

Additional expenses such as fees, books, and materials can add several hundred to a few thousand dollars each year. Some programs offer online or hybrid options that may affect the overall cost. Financial aid, scholarships, and assistantships are commonly available to help reduce expenses.

Prospective students should carefully review each program’s tuition structure and available financial support. Comparing programs can help identify the best value for completing a school counseling degree in South Dakota. Ultimately, the total cost depends on the chosen school, residency status, and program length.

What do supervisors look for in a school counseling practicum student in South Dakota?

Supervisors look for professionalism, strong communication skills, and a genuine commitment to student welfare in school counseling practicum students in South Dakota. They expect students to demonstrate ethical behavior and maintain confidentiality at all times. Effective active listening and empathy are essential qualities supervisors value, as these skills foster trust with students and staff.

Students should show initiative and adaptability in diverse school environments. Supervisors also assess the ability to apply counseling theories and interventions appropriately. Time management and organization are important to balance caseloads and responsibilities efficiently.

Collaboration with teachers, administrators, and families is another key expectation. Supervisors appreciate students who seek feedback and reflect on their practice to improve continuously. Finally, cultural competence and sensitivity to the unique backgrounds of South Dakota’s student population enhance a practicum student’s effectiveness and readiness for professional roles.